Perfect place for Grimes

Matt Grimes feels Swansea City and Graham Potter are the perfect combination for his personal development.

The midfielder returned to the Liberty this summer after spending the past two-and-a-half year years out on loan with Blackburn Rovers, Leeds United and Northampton Town.

Grimes admits he was unsure on where his future lay after spending a lengthy time away from the club, but the appointment of Potter has helped transform his Swans career.

The 23-year-old has featured in all but one of the Swans’ 17 Championship games, with Potter also utilising him at left-back.

His performances have also earned him a new contract at the club, with Grimes putting pen to paper on a deal until 2022.

And the former Exeter City man points to Potter’s influence and the positive environment around the club as the reasons behind his turnaround in fortunes.

“Graham and the coaching staff have been very important to how we’ve all grown as players this season,” said Grimes.

“It’s difficult when you’re relegated as confidence can be affected, but we’ve got on with it and listened to what the manager wants us to do.

“I’m someone who looks more short-term than long-term when I set down targets.

“At the start of the season I told myself I wanted to make my breakthrough and play between 20-30 games. I’m on 16 league appearances now so I’ll need to revaluate that.

“I wanted to earn a new contract too, so I can tick that off now.

“I want to grow as a player at this club and in this environment. I think it’s the perfect place for me.”